Shared decision making in a semi-secluded chronic psychiatric ward: The reflective lifeworld experiences of patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders and nursing staff

Background Shared decision making (SDM) enhances recovery-oriented mental healthcare, but literature predominately focuses on doctor-patient collaboration leaving the role of mental health nurses (MHN's) underexposed. Aim This study describes the experiences of patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder with SDM in a semi-secluded psychiatric facility, and the attitudes toward SDM by MHN's. Method A hermeneutic phenomenological design. Results Seven patients and six MHN's were interviewed. Although MHNs were skeptical to utilize SDM, and patients often feel omitted, investing in inter-human contact increased the therapeutic alliance. Conclusion Tailored plan making and attainable goal setting, building trust, and providing hope are important incentives to enhance SDM.